The stage is set at São Januário for one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the Campeonato Brasileiro’s 23rd round. As Vasco prepares to host Santos this Sunday, all eyes are on Vasco’s manager, Pedro Emanuel, who has pulled off a tactical surprise that could completely redefine the team's offensive dynamics.
With key players sidelined, Vasco has chosen this high-stakes fixture to debut their newest Argentine signing in a brand-new attacking formation.
The Colidio Factor: A New-Look Frontline
Vasco's headline move for this match is undoubtedly the debut of Facundo Colidio. The Argentine forward is stepping straight into the starting eleven, expected to operate on the left flank of a revamped three-man attack.
Colidio will partner with his compatriot Claudio Spinelli and Colombian winger Andrés Gómez, who makes his return to the starting lineup. This newly minted, highly creative South American trio is Pedro Emanuel’s answer to the absence of Brenner, who remains out with an injury.
Tactical Adjustments in the Defense
The attacking shake-up isn’t the only change for the Cruz-Maltino. Vasco has had to patch up their defensive line due to the suspension of left-back Cuiabano.
- Lucas Piton steps in to reclaim the left-back spot.
- In central defense, Carlos Cuesta returns to the starting lineup after being rested during the midweek clash against Olimpia. He will partner with Robert Renan to form a formidable central defensive wall.
Confirmed Vasco Lineup (4-3-3):
Léo Jardim; Paulo Henrique, Cuesta, Robert Renan, Lucas Piton; Thiago Mendes, Jair, Tchê Tchê; Andrés Gómez, Spinelli, Colidio.
The Santos Threat: Star Power on Display
Vasco’s defensive unit will have its hands full. Santos manager Cuca is arriving at São Januário with an incredibly potent lineup designed to dominate possession and exploit spaces.
The headline for the Peixe is their formidable attacking trident, featuring Neymar pulling the strings in midfield and supporting a frontline led by Gabigol. Santos is clearly not visiting Rio de Janeiro to play defensively.
Confirmed Santos Lineup (4-3-3):
Gabriel Brazão; Igor Vinicius, Willian Arão, João Ananias, Escobar; João Schmidt, Oliva, Neymar; Barreal, Caballero, Gabigol.
Matchday Details: What You Need to Know
This clash is more than just a battle for three points; it is a tactical chess match between Pedro Emanuel’s experimental squad and Cuca’s star-studded lineup.
- Event: Campeonato Brasileiro (Round 23)
- Date & Time: Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM BRT
- Venue: São Januário Stadium, Rio de Janeiro
- Where to Watch: TV Globo (Free-to-air) & Premiere (Pay-per-view)
- Refereeing Team: Lucas Casagrande (Referee), Victor Hugo Imazu dos Santos & Andrey Luiz de Freitas (Assistants), Emerson de Almeida Ferreira (VAR)
